Quote:
Originally Posted by angelo
The had already been taken out of the home.
They are on the cusp of being teenagers.
I am trying to be there for them, but I have always been the disciplinarian. Their father and I obviously did not get along and they knew it. I have spent time with both every day since sometimes just sitting in silence.
I want to thank everyone for their kindness.
Ang
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Huge and mega prop things to you, Mr. angelo. This is absolutely the very best thing you can do for those kids - right now and for the foreseeable future. If nothing else, just listen. Even if they act out, throw fits, or discuss their feelings quietly and maturely - just listen. It's the very best thing.
When my father died (I was 13), a local attorney called my house to speak with me. He was a friend of the family and offered to meet with me. Just go fishing or have a coke or whatever - you know. My response wasn't good. I shut him down and shut him out. Angrily and rudely. I was pissed off and that was the only way I knew how to express it. It was also a way for me to
test people to see if they really cared or they were just going through the motions (although I didn't realize that's what I was doing at the time). Sincerity is important to kids and they can spot a fake from a mile away. Anyhow, the attorney friend could have said, "Oh well, call me if you need something." and hung up. Instead, he hung in there. Eventually, he became an iconic and lifelong mentor to me. Listening is the key - no matter what you're listening to.
FAX